Popcorn Balls

I hope this is ok to post, since it's not technically a pastry...I've been trying to find a good popcorn ball recipe like ones I remember having years ago, with no success. They are either too sticky-the popcorn sticks to your teeth, or too brown (caramelized) if I try cooking the syrup longer. The ones I remember were not caramel corn. Searching online, I've seen recipes w/ the temperature anywhere from 250 ° to 290 °. Most recipes are similar otherwise, except some have vinegar, which I haven't tried adding. What is the function of the vinegar? Using marshmallow or any other 'glue' is not an option. My nephews are counting on me to make these for Halloween, so I need to find a reliable recipe.

Sylive, how long do these keep for? I was thinking it might be nice to hand them out Hallowe'en weekend at work to the kids who come in but I need to know a few more details first. My thought was to wrap them in saran and then use those nice cellophane bags you can get at the dollar store for presentation.

If we were to prep them on Friday, would they keep for two days?

I've never made popcorn balls before so any advice would be much appreciated.

Hi. These have never lasted long enough for me to find out how long they'd keep! I think they would be fine for 2 days, though. Saran wrap works fine, or you can wrap them in the cellophane that comes on a roll. Hope you have a wonderful Halloween.